Match story
- Brazil created the clearer chances on xG (1.71 vs 0.03, Δ 1.68).
- Brazil fired more attempts (19 vs 2 shots).
- Brazil was more accurate in front of goal (16% on target vs 0%).
- Brazil held more of the ball (74% possession).
Brazil and Costa Rica drew 0-0 in Copa America. The fixture is part of the Group Stage - 1 stage in the 2024 season. The match was played at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. C. Ramos officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Brazil vs Costa Rica meeting in Copa America with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Brazil and Costa Rica. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Copa AmericaRecorded meetings: 1 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Costa RicaBrazil and Costa Rica drew 0-0 in Copa America. The fixture is part of the Group Stage - 1 stage in the 2024 season. The match was played at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. C. Ramos officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Brazil vs Costa Rica meeting in Copa America with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Brazil and Costa Rica. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Copa AmericaRecorded meetings: 1 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Costa Rica
Arsenal could be handed a sensational opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen after the striker’s name reportedly emerged during negotiations between the Gunners and Galatasaray. The Turkish champions are currently exploring deals for Arsenal stars Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but discussions between the two clubs could potentially lead to an unexpected move for one of […] The post Forget Alvarez! Arsenal may have just been handed sensational opportunity to sign 59-goal striker in potential swap deal – opinion appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Set to return to MLS play, Lionel Messi has been dealt with a major defensive setback as Inter Miami released an injury update addressing Micael's status. Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a 3-2 defeat against Club Leon in the Leagues Cup, and following their elimination from the tournament, the 2026 MLS regular season has shifted back to being their primary focus. However, the back line has taken a major hit after Inter Miami released an official injury update on center back Micael. After starting Wednesday’s match against Club Leon, Micael was forced to exit in the 33rd minute after twisting his ankle and being unable to continue. Though he managed to walk off the pitch under his own power, Fricio Caicedo came on as his replacement at center back in a match that ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for the Mexican side, leaving Inter Miami eliminated from the Leagues Cup in the round of 16. The day after the elimination, Inter Miami released a statement addressing Micael’s condition. “Micael underwent an MRI today, which confirmed that he has a sprained right ankle sustained during last night’s Leagues Cup match against Club Leon,” part of the official update read. While confirming the injury, the Florida side did not disclose the severity or provide a firm recovery timeline. Instead, Inter Miami noted that Micael will begin a period of rest and treatment, adding that “his progress will dictate his gradual return to team training.“ Micael #16 of Inter Miami CF reacts after suffering an injury against Club Leon. (Rich Storry/Getty Images) Asked about the Brazilian’s injury during his post-match press conference, manager Guillermo Hoyos spoke candidly about what losing him would mean for the squad: “Micael has a significant sprain, and we will see what is determined during the medical examination. But it is a significant sprain, and for us, it would also be a significant loss. He is very important.“ How long will Micael be out? Much like Messi’s importance in the attack, Micael has established himself as the anchor of the defense, featuring in every single match for Inter Miami this season except for a MLS Matchday 4 clash against Charlotte FC back in March when he was rested, totalling 22 games. Now, his target return date will depend entirely on the severity of the sprain. A Grade 3 sprain, which involves a complete ligament tear and carries a two-to-three-month recovery period, seems unlikely given that Micael walked off the field unaided. If he suffered a Grade 1 sprain (micro-tears) or a Grade 2 sprain (partial tearing), his recovery timeline will likely range anywhere from one to six weeks. Who will replace Micael? Micael has cemented his status as a cornerstone of the defense while also providing a dangerous aerial threat, evidenced by his recent goal off a Messi corner kick against Atletico San Luis. Now, Hoyos faces the task of replacing a player who has arguably been Inter Miami’s most consistent defender this season. In terms of stylistic fit, recent signing Fricio Caicedo is the most natural replacement. Compared to options like Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, or a returning Maximiliano Falcon, the Ecuadorian defender offers a 6-foot-4 frame and a left-footed profile that make him the ideal candidate to preserve the team’s build-up play from the left side of defense.
Brian Madjo needed only 17 minutes to change Aston Villa's outlook for the forthcoming season. In that time he bullied Willian Pacho, one of the best markers in the world, and gave Marquinhos a fright.
Savinho is pushing to leave Manchester City as Tottenham step up their pursuit of the Brazilian winger with an £85 million offer on the table. The 22-year-old has reportedly made his desire to move to North London clear to City’s hierarchy, with Spurs attempting to complete a blockbuster deal before the transfer window closes. Spurs […] The post Tottenham target takes drastic step to force exit as Spurs make £85m offer appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Inter Miami were eliminated from the 2026 Leagues Cup after falling 3-2 to Club León, where Lionel Messi returned to action following the passing of his father. Inter Miami’s run in the 2026 Leagues Cup came to an end on Wednesday, falling 3-2 to Club Leon at Nu Stadium. But even in defeat, the story of the night belonged to Lionel Messi, who made an emotional return to the pitch just days after the passing of his father, Jorge Messi. Leon manager Javier Gandolfi didn’t hold back when asked about facing Messi under those circumstances. “For people to understand what Leo Messi is, I think it was proven today. I think words fall short. He’s a competitive animal, a player who, in my opinion, is the best in history. He’s the best in history on the field, and then with things we see from a distance,” he said during postgame press conference. Messi entered off the bench at the start of the second half with Miami leading 1-0, but Leon rallied behind a brace from Daniel Arcila and a goal from Juan Domínguez to complete the comeback, with Dániel Pintér and Yannick Bright scoring for Miami. The result sent Leon through to the knockout stage after winning all three of their group matches, while Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign ended with just one win in three outings. Este abrazo es de León, de todos, del futbol, y es para ti querido Lionel.RESPETO Y CARIÑO 💚@TeamMessi pic.twitter.com/D1Tdb03DOf— Club León (@clubleonfc) August 13, 2026 Even in a moment of personal grief, Messi’s decision to suit up resonated well beyond his own locker room, drawing praise from teammates and opponents alike for a display of commitment that few in the sport could match. Miami’s locker room rallies around Messi Inside Inter Miami‘s own squad, the reaction to Messi’s return was just as emotional. Casemiro called it an example for everyone around him: “He’s an example, because in the end he’s surely going through a very tough time… I had never seen anything like that in my life,” he said, adding that “the commitment he has to us and the commitment he has to the club is something to applaud”. Bright echoed that sentiment from his own perspective, admitting he didn’t expect to see Messi in the squad at all. “It’s incredible. I wasn’t expecting it and it shows how much he cares,” he said, before pledging to give “150%” for his captain going forward — a fitting response from a group that, despite the early exit, made clear where its focus truly was on the night.
I’ve genuinely seen Arsenal fans on social media complaining about Galatasaray offering ‘only’ €45m for Gabriel Martinelli, whilst urging their club not to sign Pedro Neto. I’m not sure what planet these fans live on, but that Martinelli fee can be very easily explained with the number one, representing the number of years left on […] The post Unpopular opinion: Arsenal fans have lost touch with reality if they don’t want this £75m Gabriel Martinelli replacement appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino (Picture: Getty) Mikel Merino says Arsenal ‘probably’ have the ‘best midfield in football’ after Bruno Guimaraes’ £75m move from Newcastle United. The Premier League champions signed Brazil international Guimaraes on a four-year deal after a protracted saga with Newcastle. Guimaraes bolsters an Arsenal midfield that already includes captain Martin Odegaard, England stars Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze, former Real Madrid target Martin Zubimendi, academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly and World Cup winner Merino. Arsenal will try to retain their Premier League crown this season while mounting another challenge for the Champions League after losing to PSG in the final back in May. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Merino, who has returned to Arsenal after helping Spain win the World Cup, believes the Gunners are in good shape to do just that after the ‘amazing’ signing of Guimaraes. Guimaraes made his first appearance for Arsenal in Wednesday’s pre-season draw with Cesc Fabregas’ Como. ‘Amazing signing,’ Merino said when asked about the Newcastle star swapping St James’ Park for the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta and new Arsenal signing Bruno Guimaraes (Picture: Getty) ‘He has proved throughout these years how good he is at Newcastle. And he showed it today again. A lot of composure, technical ability, a lot of defensive effort as well. ‘So it’s a very good signing. A top player, but we have many of those in this team. So everyone that comes to help the team is welcome.’ Asked about the strength of Arsenal’s midfield following Guimaraes’ arrival, Merino added: ‘Honestly, it’s unreal. Probably the best midfield in football. Arsenal are hoping to retain the Premier League (Picture: Getty) ‘The amount of quality that we have there, with every player that can come on the pitch and make a good shift. It’s great. ‘That’s good for the team. That’s good for the squad. It raises everyone’s level because if you have a bad day, the one that is close to you is going to do a great job. ‘I think we have an amazing squad. The hunger is still there. Not because we won it last season, we’re going to be happy with it. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dbyqbq_COQ2/?hl=en&img_index=1 ‘We want more and more and more and we want every trophy possible. That’s the best quality of this team. Not only the amount of depth that we have, the quality that we have in every position, but that hunger.’ Premier League legend and ex-England striker Alan Shearer also believes Arsenal boast arguably the best midfield on the planet following the deal for Guimaraes. ‘Arsenal are signing a top-quality player in Bruno Guimaraes,’ the Newcastle hero told Betfair. ‘There’s no doubt about that. ‘They’re signing a player who’s so comfortable on the ball under pressure, who can make that killer pass. He’s got a great attitude, too, we’ve seen that at Newcastle. ‘So, there’s no doubt he’ll improve them. I think with the likes of Rice, Odegaard and Bruno, there won’t be many better midfields out there.’ Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence with a home match against newly-promoted Coventry City a week on Friday. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi (Picture: Getty) Chelsea and Real Madrid have expressed interest in Martin Zubimendi after Arsenal signed Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United. Mikel Arteta bolstered what was already a strong and deep Arsenal midfield with the £75m signing of Guimaraes. The Brazil international emerged as a top target for Arteta earlier in the summer and Arsenal finally made a breakthrough in transfer talks after weeks of negotiations. Guimaraes strengthens a Premier League title-winning midfield which already includes the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, Eberechi Eze, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Zubimendi. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Zubimendi made a superb start to his Arsenal career following last summer’s £60m move from Real Sociedad but lost his place in the team towards the end of the campaign. Lewis-Skelly started ahead of Zubimendi during the run-in and the Spain international was benched for Arsenal’s Champions League final against PSG. Zubimendi was included in Spain’s triumphant World Cup squad but barely featured for Luis de la Fuente’s side, making just one appearance during the tournament. Zubimendi holding the World Cup trophy (Picture: Getty) The 27-year-old could face an uncertain future at Arsenal given he was already struggling for minutes before Guimaraes’ arrival, with Chelsea and Real Madrid reportedly expressing interest in securing his signature. New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso worked with Zubimendi at Real Sociedad and tried to sign him last summer during his spell in charge of Real Madrid. Reports in Spain said Madrid were ‘gutted’ to miss out on a deal for Zubimendi and the La Liga giants are said to be interested in reviving their interest if Arsenal indicate he could be sold. Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso (Picture: Getty) But Arsenal have ‘no desire’ to offload Zubimendi this summer, according to the Daily Express, and still view the Spaniard as a key member of Arteta’s squad. It is claimed Arteta also intends to keep hold of Zubimendi despite Guimaraes’ arrival as he plots a Premier League title defence and another Champions League challenge. While Arsenal appear determined not to sell Zubimendi, the report adds that ‘every player has his price’, with the club willing to change their stance should an ‘exorbitant fee’ arrive on the table. https://www.instagram.com/p/DYwnlGpNRnI/?hl=en Last week reports in Spain said Arsenal valued Zubimendi, now a World Cup, Premier League and European Championship winner, at around 90m euros (£77m). Amid speculation they could target Zubimendi, Chelsea have been offered the chance to sign his Arsenal teammate Lewis-Skelly. Chelsea have rejected the opportunity but should press ahead with their pursuit of Zubimendi, according to former Blues defender Glen Johnson. Chelsea were offered Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly (Picture: Getty) ‘I think he would be a brilliant signing for Chelsea,’ Johnson, who won the Premier League at Stamford Bridge, told SeatPin. ‘I’m not sure why Arsenal are even signing players to replace him when he was so influential for them last season. ‘He has worked with Alonso before at Real Sociedad, so Xabi must really like the player to be pushing to re-sign him at Chelsea. ‘He’s now a Premier League winner, so he’s only going to be a better player than what he was when they last worked together. ‘I’d be surprised if Arsenal let him go to Chelsea, but if they do, more fool them. He was brilliant last season and knows what it takes to win in the Premier League, which is exactly what Chelsea need. ‘He could be the backbone of Chelsea’s midfield next season, and if Alonso wants him as badly as being reported, then the club should do everything they can to sign him.’ Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence against newly-promoted Coventry City a week on Friday. For
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Arsenal could be handed a sensational opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen after the striker’s name reportedly emerged during negotiations between the Gunners and Galatasaray. The Turkish champions are currently exploring deals for Arsenal stars Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but discussions between the two clubs could potentially lead to an unexpected move for one of […] The post Forget Alvarez! Arsenal may have just been handed sensational opportunity to sign 59-goal striker in potential swap deal – opinion appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Set to return to MLS play, Lionel Messi has been dealt with a major defensive setback as Inter Miami released an injury update addressing Micael's status. Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a 3-2 defeat against Club Leon in the Leagues Cup, and following their elimination from the tournament, the 2026 MLS regular season has shifted back to being their primary focus. However, the back line has taken a major hit after Inter Miami released an official injury update on center back Micael. After starting Wednesday’s match against Club Leon, Micael was forced to exit in the 33rd minute after twisting his ankle and being unable to continue. Though he managed to walk off the pitch under his own power, Fricio Caicedo came on as his replacement at center back in a match that ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for the Mexican side, leaving Inter Miami eliminated from the Leagues Cup in the round of 16. The day after the elimination, Inter Miami released a statement addressing Micael’s condition. “Micael underwent an MRI today, which confirmed that he has a sprained right ankle sustained during last night’s Leagues Cup match against Club Leon,” part of the official update read. While confirming the injury, the Florida side did not disclose the severity or provide a firm recovery timeline. Instead, Inter Miami noted that Micael will begin a period of rest and treatment, adding that “his progress will dictate his gradual return to team training.“ Micael #16 of Inter Miami CF reacts after suffering an injury against Club Leon. (Rich Storry/Getty Images) Asked about the Brazilian’s injury during his post-match press conference, manager Guillermo Hoyos spoke candidly about what losing him would mean for the squad: “Micael has a significant sprain, and we will see what is determined during the medical examination. But it is a significant sprain, and for us, it would also be a significant loss. He is very important.“ How long will Micael be out? Much like Messi’s importance in the attack, Micael has established himself as the anchor of the defense, featuring in every single match for Inter Miami this season except for a MLS Matchday 4 clash against Charlotte FC back in March when he was rested, totalling 22 games. Now, his target return date will depend entirely on the severity of the sprain. A Grade 3 sprain, which involves a complete ligament tear and carries a two-to-three-month recovery period, seems unlikely given that Micael walked off the field unaided. If he suffered a Grade 1 sprain (micro-tears) or a Grade 2 sprain (partial tearing), his recovery timeline will likely range anywhere from one to six weeks. Who will replace Micael? Micael has cemented his status as a cornerstone of the defense while also providing a dangerous aerial threat, evidenced by his recent goal off a Messi corner kick against Atletico San Luis. Now, Hoyos faces the task of replacing a player who has arguably been Inter Miami’s most consistent defender this season. In terms of stylistic fit, recent signing Fricio Caicedo is the most natural replacement. Compared to options like Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, or a returning Maximiliano Falcon, the Ecuadorian defender offers a 6-foot-4 frame and a left-footed profile that make him the ideal candidate to preserve the team’s build-up play from the left side of defense.
Brian Madjo needed only 17 minutes to change Aston Villa's outlook for the forthcoming season. In that time he bullied Willian Pacho, one of the best markers in the world, and gave Marquinhos a fright.
Savinho is pushing to leave Manchester City as Tottenham step up their pursuit of the Brazilian winger with an £85 million offer on the table. The 22-year-old has reportedly made his desire to move to North London clear to City’s hierarchy, with Spurs attempting to complete a blockbuster deal before the transfer window closes. Spurs […] The post Tottenham target takes drastic step to force exit as Spurs make £85m offer appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Inter Miami were eliminated from the 2026 Leagues Cup after falling 3-2 to Club León, where Lionel Messi returned to action following the passing of his father. Inter Miami’s run in the 2026 Leagues Cup came to an end on Wednesday, falling 3-2 to Club Leon at Nu Stadium. But even in defeat, the story of the night belonged to Lionel Messi, who made an emotional return to the pitch just days after the passing of his father, Jorge Messi. Leon manager Javier Gandolfi didn’t hold back when asked about facing Messi under those circumstances. “For people to understand what Leo Messi is, I think it was proven today. I think words fall short. He’s a competitive animal, a player who, in my opinion, is the best in history. He’s the best in history on the field, and then with things we see from a distance,” he said during postgame press conference. Messi entered off the bench at the start of the second half with Miami leading 1-0, but Leon rallied behind a brace from Daniel Arcila and a goal from Juan Domínguez to complete the comeback, with Dániel Pintér and Yannick Bright scoring for Miami. The result sent Leon through to the knockout stage after winning all three of their group matches, while Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign ended with just one win in three outings. Este abrazo es de León, de todos, del futbol, y es para ti querido Lionel.RESPETO Y CARIÑO 💚@TeamMessi pic.twitter.com/D1Tdb03DOf— Club León (@clubleonfc) August 13, 2026 Even in a moment of personal grief, Messi’s decision to suit up resonated well beyond his own locker room, drawing praise from teammates and opponents alike for a display of commitment that few in the sport could match. Miami’s locker room rallies around Messi Inside Inter Miami‘s own squad, the reaction to Messi’s return was just as emotional. Casemiro called it an example for everyone around him: “He’s an example, because in the end he’s surely going through a very tough time… I had never seen anything like that in my life,” he said, adding that “the commitment he has to us and the commitment he has to the club is something to applaud”. Bright echoed that sentiment from his own perspective, admitting he didn’t expect to see Messi in the squad at all. “It’s incredible. I wasn’t expecting it and it shows how much he cares,” he said, before pledging to give “150%” for his captain going forward — a fitting response from a group that, despite the early exit, made clear where its focus truly was on the night.
I’ve genuinely seen Arsenal fans on social media complaining about Galatasaray offering ‘only’ €45m for Gabriel Martinelli, whilst urging their club not to sign Pedro Neto. I’m not sure what planet these fans live on, but that Martinelli fee can be very easily explained with the number one, representing the number of years left on […] The post Unpopular opinion: Arsenal fans have lost touch with reality if they don’t want this £75m Gabriel Martinelli replacement appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino (Picture: Getty) Mikel Merino says Arsenal ‘probably’ have the ‘best midfield in football’ after Bruno Guimaraes’ £75m move from Newcastle United. The Premier League champions signed Brazil international Guimaraes on a four-year deal after a protracted saga with Newcastle. Guimaraes bolsters an Arsenal midfield that already includes captain Martin Odegaard, England stars Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze, former Real Madrid target Martin Zubimendi, academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly and World Cup winner Merino. Arsenal will try to retain their Premier League crown this season while mounting another challenge for the Champions League after losing to PSG in the final back in May. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Merino, who has returned to Arsenal after helping Spain win the World Cup, believes the Gunners are in good shape to do just that after the ‘amazing’ signing of Guimaraes. Guimaraes made his first appearance for Arsenal in Wednesday’s pre-season draw with Cesc Fabregas’ Como. ‘Amazing signing,’ Merino said when asked about the Newcastle star swapping St James’ Park for the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta and new Arsenal signing Bruno Guimaraes (Picture: Getty) ‘He has proved throughout these years how good he is at Newcastle. And he showed it today again. A lot of composure, technical ability, a lot of defensive effort as well. ‘So it’s a very good signing. A top player, but we have many of those in this team. So everyone that comes to help the team is welcome.’ Asked about the strength of Arsenal’s midfield following Guimaraes’ arrival, Merino added: ‘Honestly, it’s unreal. Probably the best midfield in football. Arsenal are hoping to retain the Premier League (Picture: Getty) ‘The amount of quality that we have there, with every player that can come on the pitch and make a good shift. It’s great. ‘That’s good for the team. That’s good for the squad. It raises everyone’s level because if you have a bad day, the one that is close to you is going to do a great job. ‘I think we have an amazing squad. The hunger is still there. Not because we won it last season, we’re going to be happy with it. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dbyqbq_COQ2/?hl=en&img_index=1 ‘We want more and more and more and we want every trophy possible. That’s the best quality of this team. Not only the amount of depth that we have, the quality that we have in every position, but that hunger.’ Premier League legend and ex-England striker Alan Shearer also believes Arsenal boast arguably the best midfield on the planet following the deal for Guimaraes. ‘Arsenal are signing a top-quality player in Bruno Guimaraes,’ the Newcastle hero told Betfair. ‘There’s no doubt about that. ‘They’re signing a player who’s so comfortable on the ball under pressure, who can make that killer pass. He’s got a great attitude, too, we’ve seen that at Newcastle. ‘So, there’s no doubt he’ll improve them. I think with the likes of Rice, Odegaard and Bruno, there won’t be many better midfields out there.’ Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence with a home match against newly-promoted Coventry City a week on Friday. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi (Picture: Getty) Chelsea and Real Madrid have expressed interest in Martin Zubimendi after Arsenal signed Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United. Mikel Arteta bolstered what was already a strong and deep Arsenal midfield with the £75m signing of Guimaraes. The Brazil international emerged as a top target for Arteta earlier in the summer and Arsenal finally made a breakthrough in transfer talks after weeks of negotiations. Guimaraes strengthens a Premier League title-winning midfield which already includes the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, Eberechi Eze, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Zubimendi. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Zubimendi made a superb start to his Arsenal career following last summer’s £60m move from Real Sociedad but lost his place in the team towards the end of the campaign. Lewis-Skelly started ahead of Zubimendi during the run-in and the Spain international was benched for Arsenal’s Champions League final against PSG. Zubimendi was included in Spain’s triumphant World Cup squad but barely featured for Luis de la Fuente’s side, making just one appearance during the tournament. Zubimendi holding the World Cup trophy (Picture: Getty) The 27-year-old could face an uncertain future at Arsenal given he was already struggling for minutes before Guimaraes’ arrival, with Chelsea and Real Madrid reportedly expressing interest in securing his signature. New Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso worked with Zubimendi at Real Sociedad and tried to sign him last summer during his spell in charge of Real Madrid. Reports in Spain said Madrid were ‘gutted’ to miss out on a deal for Zubimendi and the La Liga giants are said to be interested in reviving their interest if Arsenal indicate he could be sold. Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso (Picture: Getty) But Arsenal have ‘no desire’ to offload Zubimendi this summer, according to the Daily Express, and still view the Spaniard as a key member of Arteta’s squad. It is claimed Arteta also intends to keep hold of Zubimendi despite Guimaraes’ arrival as he plots a Premier League title defence and another Champions League challenge. While Arsenal appear determined not to sell Zubimendi, the report adds that ‘every player has his price’, with the club willing to change their stance should an ‘exorbitant fee’ arrive on the table. https://www.instagram.com/p/DYwnlGpNRnI/?hl=en Last week reports in Spain said Arsenal valued Zubimendi, now a World Cup, Premier League and European Championship winner, at around 90m euros (£77m). Amid speculation they could target Zubimendi, Chelsea have been offered the chance to sign his Arsenal teammate Lewis-Skelly. Chelsea have rejected the opportunity but should press ahead with their pursuit of Zubimendi, according to former Blues defender Glen Johnson. Chelsea were offered Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly (Picture: Getty) ‘I think he would be a brilliant signing for Chelsea,’ Johnson, who won the Premier League at Stamford Bridge, told SeatPin. ‘I’m not sure why Arsenal are even signing players to replace him when he was so influential for them last season. ‘He has worked with Alonso before at Real Sociedad, so Xabi must really like the player to be pushing to re-sign him at Chelsea. ‘He’s now a Premier League winner, so he’s only going to be a better player than what he was when they last worked together. ‘I’d be surprised if Arsenal let him go to Chelsea, but if they do, more fool them. He was brilliant last season and knows what it takes to win in the Premier League, which is exactly what Chelsea need. ‘He could be the backbone of Chelsea’s midfield next season, and if Alonso wants him as badly as being reported, then the club should do everything they can to sign him.’ Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence against newly-promoted Coventry City a week on Friday. For
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